The Chief Advancement Officer (CAO) will successfully develop and execute an integrated development, marketing and communications strategy so that Mesa Global achieves its ministry objectives and fulfills its mission. As a member of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT), the CAO will contribute to strategic decision-making and ensure that advancement efforts are integrated across all areas of the organization. The CAO will implement an annual advancement plan to foster long-term growth and sustainability, lead the advancement team to fulfill the plan, and build a working environment of collaboration, humility, faith, and personal growth.
Key Responsibilities:
- Advancement Strategy, Planning, and Execution (Approx. 40% of time)
The CAO will develop and implement an annual advancement plan that outlines fundraising targets, prospect development strategies, and marketing initiatives. This includes establishing robust systems for donor management and recognition while overseeing a comprehensive marketing strategy that aligns with Mesa Global’s goals. The CAO will also collaborate with key leaders to create compelling content that communicates Mesa Global’s mission and initiatives, regularly assessing and adapting strategies to ensure effectiveness and alignment with organizational objectives.
- Team Development (Approximately 25% of time)
In this capacity, the CAO will lead and mentor a team of development and marketing professionals, fostering a culture of high performance and collaboration. By providing consistent coaching and clear goal-setting, the CAO will ensure that the team aligns with organizational priorities. Creating an environment that honors team members’ aspirations will enhance effectiveness and output, ultimately contributing to the organization’s success.
- Donor Relations (Approximately 25% of time)
The CAO will manage a strategic portfolio of major gifts, focusing on identifying, cultivating, and stewarding relationships with significant donors. Building strong, lasting connections will be essential for maximizing donor engagement and investment in Mesa Global’s mission. The CAO will engage with prospects and donors in ways that reflect the organization’s values, with travel as needed to strengthen trust and relationships within the portfolio.
- Executive Leadership (Approximately 10% of time)
In collaboration with the President, Executive Leadership Team (ELT), and Board Advancement Committee, the CAO will help develop and execute the organization’s advancement strategy. This role involves contributing to decision-making processes that impact the organization’s culture, sustainability, and long-term impact. The CAO will proactively adapt advancement strategies to meet evolving organizational needs and seize external opportunities.
What a Strong Candidate Would Look Like:
- Strategic Relationship Building: Build and maintain trust-based relationships with diverse stakeholders, including donors, global workers, and church leaders, to unify donor engagement and increase funding.
- Effective Communication and Collaboration: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills are needed to align teams, especially in collaboration with marketing, to clearly convey goals and foster trust.
- Builder and Cultivator: A proactive leader who creates and implements strategies for donor engagement and sustainable growth while building a strong advancement team.
- Servant Leadership: A motivating leader who inspires collaboration and commitment, driving a shared vision with humility and zeal.
- Cultural Agility: Navigate and embrace diverse perspectives, fostering an inclusive environment that advances the organization’s mission across global contexts.